A key institution whose surroundings need attention
We have reaffirmed our support for Casa Mediterráneo’s work in Alicante and called for decisive action by public bodies to bring its headquarters and surroundings up to the standard its cultural and diplomatic role deserves.
We consider that the former Benalúa railway station, a protected building and one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks on the waterfront, is still operating under temporary arrangements. In our view, the renovation needed has been waiting more than ten years for city council permission and sufficient backing from the institutions in the consortium.
Raising revenue by hosting events
Casa Mediterráneo’s governing board has approved rules for hiring out parts of the building temporarily for conferences, presentations, food fairs, concerts, fashion shows and other outside events. According to Información, the scheme starts in September and is made possible by a clause in the new contract with Adif allowing occasional use of this kind.
The institution expects annual revenue of between €70,000 and €100,000. Its own programme and requests from the public bodies in the consortium will take priority. Outside events must be compatible with the building’s diplomatic, cultural and institutional role and may not alter its structure or appearance.
The headquarters and the old railway shed still need a solution
The announcement of this new income stream has revived residents’ concerns about unresolved issues. We believe that bringing in revenue from events must leave room to improve working conditions, finish refurbishing the headquarters and look after the surroundings in a way that reflects the value of Casa Mediterráneo.
Our concerns also extend to the former railway shed beside the headquarters. We recall the announcement that it would be restored and incorporated into Casa Mediterráneo’s premises. It is still deteriorating, with bricked-up windows, graffiti and visible roof damage.
We ask the public bodies in the consortium to strengthen their support and make the conservation and improvement of this group of heritage buildings a priority. Casa Mediterráneo is one of Alicante’s most valuable institutions and deserves care and recognition.
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